Lately, my husband and I have been trying to teach our 3 year old to "be kind". I so desperately want him to be kind to others, kind to his baby sister, and kind to the family pet! It is definitely a struggle for him to be intentional and actually remember to be kind in each situation. When I was trying to explain kindness and tell him what it means, the first word that came to mind was "nice". But kindness is so much more than just being nice. I found it a little difficult to define the word in a way that a three year old would comprehend. That is when I realized kindness is an action word. By demonstrating kindness, not only do you see the effect, but it also presents the condition of someone's heart.

Ultimately, I hope that my little 3 year old will grow a servant's heart. A heart that truly cares for others, is sacrificial, and above all humble. This is what kindness embodies. So how do you grow a servant's heart? Well of course with a lot of prayer, asking the Lord to encourage this each day in your little one's heart. But I really think it starts with that action word...kindness.

So all I need to do is model "being nice" and they'll get it, right? I think it first begins with the basics of our words and attitude. How do we respond in a situation? Is our first reaction frustration or anger? Are we negative around our children to the point that they start becoming negative themselves? This has been a huge lesson for myself as I have realized that little eyes and ears are always watching and listening!

"Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with a heart of mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience,... Colossians 3:12

What better way to celebrate Valentine's day this year instead of focusing on the candy, flowers and the hype, focusing on the heart!

Lisa Joens is the Associate Producer at Theo Presents. She and her husband Brandon work along side each other on the Theo Productions. She is also a mom to two wonderful little kiddos.

Lisa Joens

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5 Comments

Nancy

November 13, 2016

Just found your wonderful website & blog! Kindness has been a big word around our house for the past year as our soon to be 3 year old son is also learning about being kind!!! Thanks so much for sharing & reminding us that kindness is an action!

Shirlee

February 19, 2016

I wished that I had this helpful blog when I was raising my children but, will gladly refer to it with my grandchild. Thanks

Janet Scaruffi

February 09, 2016

While on a visit to the Holy Land years ago a question came to me as I opened my Bible one night, " Who is Jesus" ?
I thought for a second and the word “SERVANT” came to me. So if we truly want to be like our Lord we too must be a servant. What joy it brings to our spirit when we are allowed to follow in His steps.

Lisa Joens

February 06, 2016

Katen,
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Katen

February 05, 2016

Thank you for sharing the message on kindness. How can I get this blog consistently?